This web log serves as a forum for news, views and discussion about all things related to the science of food: food chemistry, microbiology, engineering, process technology, and nutrition. Also discussed are issues related to food safety, GMO foods, organic foods, health and wellness, and news about what's going on in the PSU Food Science Department.

September 12, 2015

You Know What Makes Great Food Coloring? Bugs

THERE ARE BUGS IN your food and makeup. Some of them are there on purpose.

One of the best known is cochineal, a red color additive derived from a scale insect called, appropriately, the cochineal scale (Dactylopius coccus). Cochineal is a naturally occurring compound that’s been used by humans for hundreds of years, and provides an important source of cash for a lot of rural Central and South American people. [MORE]